Google postpones Gemini’s full Android rollout to 2026, keeping Google Assistant active during the extended transition period

Google has pushed back its plan to fully replace Google Assistant with Gemini on Android devices, extending the transition timeline into 2026. The company had earlier indicated that the shift would be completed before the end of 2025, but that schedule has now been revised.
The delay was confirmed through Google’s official Gemini Apps community forum, where the company said more time was required to “deliver a seamless transition” for users. With the end of 2025 approaching, Google acknowledged that migrating millions of Android users from Assistant to Gemini needed further development and testing.
End of Google Assistant draws closer
Introduced in 2016, Google Assistant has served as the company’s primary voice assistant for nearly a decade. In March 2025, Google announced plans to phase it out on most mobile devices in favour of Gemini, aligning with its broader focus on generative AI-powered experiences.
Once the transition is completed, Google Assistant will be removed from devices that meet Gemini’s eligibility requirements. These include smartphones and tablets running Android 10 or later with at least 2GB of RAM. The standalone Google Assistant app will also be withdrawn from app stores.
Google advances Gemini integration beyond Android
While the Android migration has slowed, Google has already expanded Gemini to other platforms. The AI assistant is now available across Wear OS smartwatches, Android Auto and Google Home devices. Gemini has also gained the ability to handle tasks such as calling, messaging and setting timers without using user data for AI training.
Google said further updates on Gemini’s wider rollout will be shared in the coming months. For now, Google Assistant will continue to operate on Android, though its eventual replacement by Gemini appears to be a matter of timing rather than uncertainty.
Published: 21 Dec 2025, 08:00 am IST
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